A MAJOR motorway is set to close this weekend with a new speed limit on the horizon.
TheM6is introducing a new 40mph speed limit until 2027, and closing sections of theas a two-year planned project is underway.
The northbound carriageway was already closed this past weekend from 10pm to 6am between junctions 39 and 40.
Now, the southbound M6 carriageway will be closed between Junction 40 and Junction 39 this weekend.
It will be closed from 10pm to 6am each night on Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13.
This is due to major repairs on Lowther Bridge, which takesover the River Lowther into the south of Penrith.
Driers have have been urged to plan their journeys in advance due to the closure.
Works include re-waterproofing of concrete, resurfacing and renewing the central reservation barrier.
Lowther Bridge is a vital part of the infrastructure of the M6, said National Highways project manager Sam Whitfield.
Mr Whitfield claims the maintenance is necessary for the motorway to continue operating for the long-term.
Diversion signs via the A6 will be visible to drivers during these road closures, with the carriageway reduced to two lanes.
The repair works are part of the £9 million Lowther Bridge Project, and £60 million WestCoast Railways Clifton M6 bridge replacement projects.
Whitfield add: “To reduce disruption, we’re working with Network Rail’s nearby project at Clifton to share traffic management.
“This means only a limited number of full motorway closures are needed and ensures the M6 will be open for most of our work.”;
Drivers are urged to check the latest before journeys over the M6, but it will remain open at all times.
They will also be required to adhere to the new 40mph speed limit, with traffic management in the area working to replace Clifton Bridge over the next 18 months.
Whitfield shared: “While this is not a quick project we’re doing all we can to minimise any inconvenience to commuters, hauliers, holiday makers and other motorway users.
“This includes coordinating activities and sharing traffic management with Network Rail who’ll also be in the area working to replace nearby Clifton bridge over the next 18 months.”
From Monday, April 14, the southbound carriageway will be reduced to two lanes with the hard shoulder and lane one closed.
However, drivers will be able to use lanes two and three.
The investment aims to ensure the longevity of the bridge, which, following the repair works, will extend its lifeline for a further 120 years.
It comes after work on the bridge planned for last year was halted due to environmental approval needed as bats were discovered under the bridge.
